At K 2025 in Düsseldorf, NatureWorks and Sukano unveiled three major innovations that could redefine compostable packaging. Their collaboration has delivered commercially viable, high-performance solutions that don’t require costly equipment upgrades, a crucial step toward scaling sustainable packaging across industries.
BoPLA films as thin as a human hair
Among the highlights was the new BoPLA High-Barrier Film, designed for small portion packaging such as ketchup sachets, coffee pods, and seasoning packets. Once a recycling and composting nightmare, these tiny items can now be made from a reliable, fully compostable film that performs well in production and breaks down naturally after use.
Another advancement, BoPLA Ultra-Thin Films (4–7 microns), opens the door to recyclable paper packaging. As thin as a human hair yet strong enough to protect products, these films can be produced on existing lines thanks to Sukano’s antiblock masterbatch technology, which enhances NatureWorks’ Ingeo Extend 4950D.